PESHAWAR: British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott held a meeting with Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Ali Amin Khan Gandapur at the Chief Minister’s House, Peshawar, on Wednesday.
The meeting focused on matters of mutual interest, the overall security environment in the region, and ongoing public welfare projects being executed in the province with the support of the British Government. Both sides reaffirmed their determination to strengthen cooperation and partnerships in the social sector.
On the occasion, the British High Commissioner also indicated the launch of a new programme in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, following the successful completion of the SEED and SNG initiatives.
Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur expressed deep appreciation for the assistance provided by the British Government through the SEED and SNG programmes, acknowledging their significant contribution in enhancing the institutional capacity of provincial departments. He reiterated the provincial government’s desire to continue these initiatives for the benefit of the people.
Elaborating on the government’s priorities, the Chief Minister highlighted that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is making substantial investments to counter the challenges posed by climate change, while also focusing on the reconstruction of infrastructure damaged by recent floods.
He underlined that particular emphasis is being placed on accelerating economic growth and creating employment opportunities, especially in the merged districts. To ensure efficiency, transparency, and effective use of resources, the provincial government is also introducing digitization of official processes for improved planning and development.
The Chief Minister stressed the importance of international partners’ support in these critical sectors, adding that sustainable peace in the region is closely tied to stability in Afghanistan. He noted that negotiations and traditional jirgas remain the most practical and viable paths toward achieving a lasting solution to the Afghan conflict.
Ali Amin Gandapur further stated that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has been hosting Afghan refugees for decades and continues to facilitate their dignified return. He assured that the provincial government is extending all possible assistance to Afghan families voluntarily returning to their homeland.
